Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky.
Student Instructions:
Begin the discussion by touching on the topics of folktales and fables. Explain the difference between folktales and fables to students and their significance in literature. Address the meaning of different folktales and fables and the types of lessons they try to impart. Teachers can also discuss some famous folktales and fables that students are already familiar with.
Ask the students to identify different themes present in the story and the central message of the story that the author is trying to convey. Students can then reflect on how these themes and messages can be connected with the presence of folktale characters such as Anansi the Spider in the story.
Help the students identify and discuss the different stages and elements of a hero’s journey. Explain how such characters play a major role in these types of narratives and try to impart an important lesson to the readers with the help of characters. Ask the students to use this perspective and analyze the significance of such characters in the hero’s journey.
Examine the ways in which the characters are portraying any form of symbolism. Talk about the ways in which characters could portray more general societal or cultural concepts and ideals. Teach the students to recognize the characters' allegorical elements and relate them to universal themes or real-world problems.
Encourage the students to analyze various characters and initiate a conversation about the value of diversity representation in literature. Examine the ways in which "Tristan Strong" integrates characters from different origins and involves myths and stories from a distinct culture.
Tristan Strong himself is one of the primary characters present in the narrative. Supporting characters like Gum Baby, John Henry, and Anansi, who each have crucial roles to play in the progression of the plot and Tristan's quest, could also be considered important players in the story.
Yes, certain characters in the story are influenced by myths African-American myths, or folklore. A rich tapestry of characters with a foundation in cultural storytelling is created by the author through the blending of conventional aspects with distinctive traits. Characters such as “Anansi the Spider” play an important role in this regard.